Arman Tsarukyan and his team were removed from a commercial flight due to violations of airline rules. The infractions included using phones during takeoff and not putting away tray tables. Tsarukyan was traveling to a wrestling tournament where he is scheduled to compete against Juraja Faber at RAF 08. After being removed from the commercial flight, Tsarukyan arranged a private jet to continue his journey. The post humorously notes this explains why Tsarukyan prefers private jets. His fight at RAF 08 remains scheduled as planned.
Arman Tsarukyan and his team were booted off a commercial flight ahead of his travel to a wrestling tournament, forcing the top-ranked lightweight contender to arrange a private jet to reach his destination.
Tsarukyan, known as "Ahalkalakets," was removed from the flight after his group violated airline regulations, including using phones during takeoff and failing to stow tray tables before departure. Following the removal, the 29-year-old Russian secured private air travel and continued his journey without further disruption. His scheduled appearance at RAF 08, where he is set to compete against Juraja Faber in a wrestling tournament, remains on track.
The No. 1-ranked lightweight in the UFC, Tsarukyan carries a professional MMA record of 23-3-0 and trains out of American Top Team. Standing five-foot-seven with a 72-inch reach, the orthodox striker is one of the most well-rounded fighters in the 155-pound division. He lands 3.85 significant strikes per minute at 50 percent accuracy and adds consistent wrestling pressure, averaging 3.26 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Tsarukyan is the top-ranked lightweight contender, so any disruption to his preparation draws attention across the division.
- The incident ended without lasting consequences, as private travel got him to the tournament on schedule.
- His appearance at a wrestling competition underscores the continued emphasis on grappling in his training camp.
The episode drew a light-hearted reaction, with the situation noted as a tongue-in-cheek explanation for why Tsarukyan has developed a preference for private jets over commercial airlines.
